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Tax saver fixed deposits in India have become a wonderful tool for the investors to save income tax through section 80C. Fixed deposits (FDs) started loosing popularity as the interest rates on FDs continued to fall down consistently. It's only in 2006 when the trend started changing, as the government, under Section 80C of Income Tax Act 1961, exempted bank fixed deposits booked for 5 years and up to Rs. 1 lac by HUF or individuals. So, if you are a tax payer and looking forward to some investment options that can save some tax for your, you can opt for India tax saver fixed deposits.

The Details

In Union Budget 2006, the tax benefits were extended to 5-year tax saver fixed deposits, where investments up to Rs. 1 lac were exempted from the tax. One cannot withdrawal the deposits prematurely. Besides, you cannot use the deposit as collateral to get a loan. Banks do not provide overdraft facility on India tax saver fixed deposits.

Interest Rates

There can be varied rate of interests on the tax saver fixed deposits in India, which may range from 8% to 9%. Senior citizens get special interest rates. The interest rates are usually calculated on quarterly basis. The interest is reinvested again into the FD. As a result, at the end of each quarter, the principal goes up.

The returns on India tax saver fixed deposits are taxable.

Who Can Have Tax Saver Fixed Deposits?

Any individual as well as Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) can go for tax saver fixed deposits. One can also jointly hold these FDs. Even a minor can be a joint holder.

Salient Features

Following are the salient features of tax saver fixed deposits in India:

1. The fixed deposit is locked for 5 years. You cannot withdraw your investment prematurely.

2. The minimum amount of purchase is Rs. 100 and then in multiples of that.

3. The maximum amount of purchase is Rs. 100,000.

4. The maximum amount of claim in Rs. 1 lac.

5. The rate of interest varies, which can further change in future.

6. It doesn't have sweep-in facility. It can't be linked to a savings account. Surplus fund of savings account can't be automatically invested in tax saver fixed deposits either.

7. Relationship benefits are not offered on the India tax saver fixed deposits.